Forum: Plumbing

April 26, 2008

Bathroom in basement?

Anyone had that done? I'm looking to install one og those Saniflo tiolets that macerate and pump into the sewer line, then have a stall shower installed to drain to my pump. I know it's a little more difficult than installing one above ground, so I'm interested in the experiences of others. I could use any info, stories, contacts etc... Thanks in advance.

April 23, 2008

Recommendations for Plumbers?

Would love to hear your recommendations for a solid, reliable plumber for two pre-war rental properties we own.

Ideally, we'd like to hire a Master Plumber -maybe just starting to build his own business- who is interested in having a long-term, reliable client.

Generally, our projects are part large and structural in nature, others are less-involved fixes to plumbing within the rental units. Would be happy to provide more detail to a plumber who is interested in the work.

April 18, 2008

Looking for basement bathroom pros

Hi, I'm in Gowanus/Park slope looking for recommendations for plumbers that are experienced with installing basement bathrooms. I've got a basement with a W/D and slop sink hooked up to a sewer ejector pump that works great, but would like to remove slop sink and install a small pedestal sink, toilet and shower stall. Anyone else done that or have a any experiences or contacts to share? We just had a kid and are in dire need for those facilities. Thanks in advance

April 9, 2008

Time to replace my water heater?

I currently have a 40 Gallon Sears Kenmore water heater that was manufactured in 1996. It still works, but I am wondering if it's time to say goodbye. By the way, this should support 4 people with 2 bathrooms. What are your thoughts as to whether I should keep the old one going until it goes or preemptively replace it beforehand? In my basement, some water on the floor wouldn't spell the end of the world as the floor in the area is mostly dirt and the basement is typically pretty dry.

Given that I am not in an emergency situation, I figured it was time to look at my options. I'll throw out the possibility of tankless due to the venting requirements. I guess that leaves a traditional water heater of some sort or an indirect water heater in conjunction with my Burnham gas boiler. What is involved with converting my boiler to heat my hot water? If I decide to go the traditional water heater route, I wouldn't mind spending a little bit more for a more efficient (maybe smaller high recovery?) unit which will save some $ and have a smaller environmental footprint. I'm concerned about the environmental impact more than the cost, but cost is obviously a factor as well.

Thanks for any input.

April 5, 2008

creating bathtub overflow?

We have an original (100 year old) tub in our home that we'd like to use as our kids' bathtub. Unfortunately, it has no overflow drain, which makes me a little nervous. I'm the type who's likely to turn on the tub, go get the kid ready, and come back to a flooded bathroom.

So, I'm wondering if anyone knows if it's possible to create an overflow drain in an old tub -- perhaps using the faucet opening? And or, perhaps someone can recommend a plumber who is good at retrofitting vintage bathroom fixtures.

Thanks!

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